Prado Museum Opening Hours

The Prado is open Monday–Saturday 10:00–20:00 and Sunday & holidays 10:00–19:00, with two daily free-admission windows and three closed days per year. See the best time to visit page for quieter slots and the visitors guide for what to do once inside.

Permanent Collection

Monday – Saturday	10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday & public holidays	10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Free Admission Windows

Monday – Saturday	6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Sunday & public holidays	5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Reduced Hours

6 January, 24 December, 31 December

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Closed Days

Annual closures

1 January, 1 May, 25 December

Last admission: 30 minutes before closing time. Important: the free-admission windows are extremely popular — expect 30–60 minute queues at the Goya door. A €15 timed-entry ticket buys back that time.

Opening Hours FAQ

Hours, holidays, last admission and free-entry windows

Is the Prado open every day?

Almost — closed only on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December. Open every other day of the year, including Mondays.

What time is the last admission?

30 minutes before closing — so 19:30 Monday–Saturday and 18:30 on Sundays and holidays.

Are the free-admission windows worth it?

Only if you have time to queue. The free hours (Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00, Sun & holidays 17:00–19:00) draw long lines. With a €15 ticket you skip the queue and stay as long as you want.

Does the Prado close early on any dates?

Yes — 6 January (Three Kings' Day), 24 December and 31 December close at 14:00 instead of the usual evening time.

Are there evening openings I can book?

The Prado does not run special late-night programmes for the general public, but the regular 18:00–20:00 window on weekdays effectively works as one — quieter than midday with golden-hour light through the skylights.

Is the museum open on Spanish public holidays?

Yes, with Sunday hours (10:00–19:00) on most public holidays. The exceptions are 1 January, 1 May and 25 December, when it closes completely.

How long can I stay inside once I've entered?

As long as you like up to closing time. The timed slot only governs when you can enter, not how long you can stay.